Tap into a deep well of culture

Develop your heart, mind, body, and spirit with a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies, based on Indigenous philosophies and ways of knowing.

In accordance with the teachings of the medicine wheel, courses are organized into four themes: Indigenous history, social relations and governance, land and culture, and world view and spirituality.

Through a blend of language learning, Indigenous peoples' knowledge, and other multi-disciplinary courses, the program equips you to address the challenges Indigenous communities are facing on the path to self-determination, including land claims, resource management, socio-economic development, policy development, cultural empowerment, and Indigenous resurgence.

Two supervised field placements provide opportunity to get hands-on experience, apply classroom learning, and build relationships with Indigenous communities and agencies. In addition, you get to participate in field trips, circle learning, interaction with Elders, Stó:lō cultural teachings, and special guest lectures.

Reflecting the importance of UFV’s location in the heart of Stó:lō unceded territory, the Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies is place-based and strongly rooted in the cultural knowledge of Coast Salish peoples.

When you graduate, you are ready to work with Indigenous communities and government agencies to develop co-management approaches that address Indigenous needs and priorities. Or you may opt to continue your studies to earn a master's degree in a related discipline.

Career outlook for Indigenous Studies

Indigenous people are Canada's fastest-growing demographic. According to Statistics Canada, they currently accounts for 4.3% of the Canadian population. And this number is expected to grow to 5.3% by 2030.

Paralleling this trend is a rising awareness that the dominant post-colonial culture has marginalized Indigenous people and denied them the right to participate and have a voice. Much work must occur to repair relations between Indigenous people and settler communities.

As a result, First Nations communities and agencies, and government ministries that serve First Nations need trained leaders and advocates to work in the areas of treaty negotiations, policy development, and resource management. Work opportunities also exist in public service, in schools, prisons, and municipalities that work with First Nations people.